Hollywood studios reportedly want to recycle dead actors’ AI likenesses without family permission

SAG-AFTRA, representing Hollywood actors, has reportedly rejected a proposal by The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) regarding the use of AI-created likenesses. The studios’ offer, described as their “last, best and final,” included clauses allowing the unlimited use of AI scans of high-demand and deceased performers without consent. The union is preparing a counter-offer to eliminate this AI-related language.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, AMPTP’s proposal sought to obtain “AI scans” of Schedule F performers (those earning over $32,000 per TV episode or $60,000 per film) by paying a one-time fee. This arrangement would grant studios perpetual rights to these likenesses without further payment.

A critical aspect of the proposal was its provision for the unrestricted use of deceased performers’ AI-generated likenesses without the need for consent from their estates or SAG-AFTRA. The union is pushing for changes that would require consent and compensation each time a studio or streamer re-uses a performer’s AI scan.

Despite the initial dispute, Variety reported that SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP have reached a mutual understanding on contentious issues, including AI consent following an actor’s death.

A union source emphasized the importance of these negotiations for the future of the performance industry, noting the current proposal’s loophole regarding posthumous consent.

SAG-AFTRA updated its members on the ongoing negotiations, stressing its commitment to not settling for a subpar contract. The union highlighted that several crucial issues, including AI, are still unresolved.

As of November 8, 2023, reports indicate that the two sides have resolved their differences regarding the AI rights of deceased actors, moving closer to an agreement in this complex negotiation.